Development News for Durham, North Carolina

Durham Council Reviews Zoning Changes and Law Enforcement Technology Resolution

The City Council reviewed several proposed zoning map changes and text amendments. This included a zoning map change for the Garland District (Z2600002), a development moratoria text amendment (TC 2600002), and a modification of the Tier Boundary for the Palmer Edge Light Industrial Park. Separately, the Council considered a resolution governing the use of law enforcement technologies, added in response to a previous council session. Council members requested more time to review the resolution, noting its late addition to the agenda. Discussions touched on whether a resolution or ordinance was more appropriate, the meaning of 'shall' within a resolution, and the binding nature of resolutions on the administration. The timing of this resolution was linked to the execution of the Exxon contract.

Durham Police Department Reports 44.4% Increase in Homicides in First Quarter, While Robberies Decline

The Durham Police Department presented its first quarter crime report summary for January through March. The report indicated a 44.4% increase in homicides compared to the previous year, with 13 offenses reported, including domestic violence cases and a negligent manslaughter. Robbery offenses decreased by 26.2%, attributed to significant arrests and community cooperation. Aggravated assaults saw a 14.8% increase, with a notable rise in firearm involvement. Shooting incidents decreased slightly, but the number of people shot increased. Property crimes, including burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft, showed an overall decrease of 6.1%, though larceny related to motor vehicles and the theft of firearms from vehicles were highlighted. Clearance rates for most crime categories were down. The department reported a staffing level of 76.3% for sworn officers and 91% for non-sworn staff, with successful recruitment efforts for new police academies and lateral transfers. The report also touched upon ongoing efforts in gun safety education and partnerships to address domestic violence concerns.

Lease Escalators and HVAC Upgrades for Police Facility Under Scrutiny

Council Member Cook inquired about the 3% rental rate escalator in a contract with a landlord, questioning if it aligns with general property value increases. The City stated that 3% is standard for such leases and consistent with cell tower leases. Regarding a lease for the Police Department's property and evidence space, Council Member Cook questioned the need for extensive HVAC upgrades in a warehouse space, given the cost and the state crime lab standard requiring air conditioning, effective since August 2020. Staff confirmed the space remains suitable for operations and is cost-effective compared to leasing elsewhere. Discussions also touched on energy efficiency and potential long-term solutions like owning a warehouse, with the city exploring a right-of-first-refusal on the current property.

Durham Proposes Modifications to Minimum Housing Code Focusing on Safety, Efficiency, and Clarity

The City Council reviewed proposed modifications to the Minimum Housing Code, aiming for alignment, clarification, and simplification. Key changes include eliminating minimum area requirements for kitchens to accommodate smaller, efficient homes like ADUs, removing the requirement for interior keyed deadbolts on the inside of egress doors for safety, and clarifying that air conditioning units, if present, must be in good working condition. Modifications were made to address exterior and interior wall conditions, flooring hazards, property drainage to prevent erosion and flooding, fence and accessory structure maintenance, yard hazards, premises identification for emergency services, water pressure requirements, and pest elimination responsibilities. The proposed amendments will undergo a public hearing on June 15, 2025, with subsequent updates to the city code.